A space for meditative mindfulness, physical wellness, and for immersive contemplation on the existential threat of climate change. The project uses cedar wood heated by a glass dome evaporating water to create a hot, humid, steam-room like experience on the Hudson River.

Phenomenon: Evaporation

Evaporation is the process of liquid water changing into water vapor. It’s a key part of the water cycle. It occurs when heat breaks the bonds between water molecules. Evaporation increases humidity. This is the amount of water vapor in the air.

Precedents

For the Austrian biologist and philosopher, Hans Haacke, a living organism is an open system that
continuously changes depending on its dialogue or interaction with the environment.
(Condensation Cube, 1963-1967)

A greenhouse dome floating using recycled plastic creating a humid environment perfect for cultivating food in Jamaica, a water-locked nation with major food security issues. Built to combat the twin dangers of rising sea levels and food scarcity.
(Hope Waters Dome)

The Jellyfish Barge was conceived as a 70 square meter octagon, floating atop recycled plastic drums. Tackling food insecurity through modular systems with sustainability in mind.

A series of floating pontoons in high density polyethylene anchored to the bottom of the lake, and covered with iridescent and rippled orange fabric. The installation surface catches and reflects the light in its various hues and variations of shades that range from the metaphysical sense of the zenithal light to the dusk atmospheres, through to the night lit by the moon and artificial lights. The lake also plays an active role in entering into contact with the perceptual sensations of those who take the orange road with its sloping edges, which are designed to immerse gently into the water.
(Floating Piers, Christo and Jeanne-Claude)

Site Analysis

Located on the water off of pier 64, the dome floats on the Hudson River. With an unobstructed view of the sun path during the spring and summer months. It floats on the water rising and falling alongside the river’s tides.

User Analysis

With the recent rise of hot yoga” and “hot Pilates” spaces there is an increasing amount of young adults searching for spaces that are humid. This is nothing new, with the highly sought sauna experience. Maybe for a weekend with the girls, cross training before a big game, or just a random Tuesday to rest and relax.

Providing a free spa and meditative space people are sure to come.

Experimentation & Research

Experimenting with evaporation using the halogen light bulb. Successfully used a glass dome that had a significant amount of visible condensation! The ideal material for greenhouses is glass because of their durability and insulation properties. The ideal shape is a dome like or rounded roof for the most amount of surface area.

Materials & Assembly

To keep the base from moving it’ll use a similar system that is used for buoys. A weight is tied and keeps it from moving much horizontally. Plastic dock floats pontoon cube mold floating platform. Similar to the Jellyfish Barge they can be made of recycled plastics emphasizing even more sustainability goals. They can carry up to 30lbs per square foot. Wood dock ramps make the Boiling Point accessible regardless of the time of day. Since the tides change so drastically and the structure floats on the water. This adjustable dock moves with the structure as we go from low tide to high tide.

Most greenhouses are prefabricated and go on top of the base! They’re usually made of lightweight metals such as steel or aluminum paired with a polycarbonate plastic or glass.

Glass paired with metal is an ideal structure for greenhouses. Glass allows lots of the sun’s rays to pass through it but protects the interior from outdoor elements such as the rain.

Cedar wood is good for spas because it offers natural durability, insect resistance, and decay resistance. Its aromatic properties provide a soothing fragrance, contributing to a relaxing atmosphere. The wood’s
natural oils repel moisture, preventing mold and mildew buildup, which ensures a cleaner and healthier environment for sauna users

Model

Model in 1/2” – 1’0” scale

Materials & process:
UV Resin
3D Printing
Clear Plastic Poly Carbonate 0.30mm
E6000 Glue
Wood Base
Basswood Strips
Cardboard

Renderings

Path towards dome. From a side view to the entrance. Walking towards and being inside. Different programs are illustrated